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I Used to be Fun
A richly satisfying family dramedy for any woman who has asked, “Whose life is this?”
Jessica Holloway is miserable. As mom to two ungrateful, almost-grown children and wife to one appreciative-but-needy husband, she has all-but-abandoned the extraordinary—and extraordinarily fun—woman she used to be.
She may be smiling while she volunteers at the school's dog wash fundraiser, but inside, she's seething. Having traded her future as a high-powered attorney for motherhood nearly two decades ago, she's now desperate to reconnect with the woman she once was.
Pushed to her breaking point, Jessica is secretly terrified at what she might do.
Go on strike permanently?
Take the dog and run away to Mexico?
Tell her mother-in-law what she really thinks of her?
Whatever it is, it's going to be a disaster. Because this time, Jessica will stop at nothing to get her power back - no matter the cost.
Jessica Holloway is miserable. As mom to two ungrateful, almost-grown children and wife to one appreciative-but-needy husband, she has all-but-abandoned the extraordinary—and extraordinarily fun—woman she used to be.
She may be smiling while she volunteers at the school's dog wash fundraiser, but inside, she's seething. Having traded her future as a high-powered attorney for motherhood nearly two decades ago, she's now desperate to reconnect with the woman she once was.
Pushed to her breaking point, Jessica is secretly terrified at what she might do.
Go on strike permanently?
Take the dog and run away to Mexico?
Tell her mother-in-law what she really thinks of her?
Whatever it is, it's going to be a disaster. Because this time, Jessica will stop at nothing to get her power back - no matter the cost.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2023
1100 people are currently reading
11920 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Summers
53 books1,105 followersMelanie Summers is a multi-award-winning, Amazon best-selling author of romantic comedies and women’s fiction. She’s written over thirty books for people who have 'had it up to here' with the real world and need to laugh, feel good, and sigh happily. When she’s not writing or reading, she's usually out for a walk with her two adorable dogs, hanging out on the beach with her husband and their three teenagers, or curled up on the couch for family movie night. Melanie resides on Vancouver Island, Canada where her life goal is to become one of those fabulous people who take daily ice baths in the ocean. So far, she can get in up to her ankles, which is not awful, thank you very much.
Melanie Summers also writes under the name M.J. Summers
Melanie Summers also writes under the name M.J. Summers
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews
March 25, 2023
This story was refreshing and frustrating in equal measure – it gets off to a weak start, improves considerably in the mid sections, and then finishes tamely.
Jessica Holloway feels lost – not sure what purpose in life she is fulfilling, quite typical in mid-life. She is in her late 40s now, but had at one time thought of becoming a successful lawyer. She did well on her LSAT – being in the top 5%, but got married and the responsibilities of managing the house and teenage kids is taking a toll. Her relationship with her husband Mike has been good and her kids Winnie & Noah are doing ok as well. Jess does some volunteer work at the school which does not excite her, and feels something is missing in her life. She visits a therapist Dr Fern, who suggests it may be a long process to improvement and she feels disillusioned after her first visit. After many weeks, she decides to give it one more shot and books an appointment with Dr Harris. She enters an office located next to his by mistake and a hilarious conversation ensues where she is mistaken for a job applicant. She considers pursuing some of her earlier ambitions, however late it may seem to others. While a few friends support her, many including her entire family feel it is a foolish move, which will only strain their finances.
Till about 25% of the book, there was very little to look forward to and I found it very boring. After that, the tensions build up within the family and I liked the mix of humour, hope, despair and resolve in these mid sections. The aspect I liked here was that the scenario felt very real & likely. The story in the later sections tapers down the tension as expected, and while it can be regarded as an ending which addresses Jessica’s mental state, it is a low energy finish.
My rating: 3.5 / 5.
Thanks to Netgalley, Indigo Group and the author for a free electronic review copy.
Jessica Holloway feels lost – not sure what purpose in life she is fulfilling, quite typical in mid-life. She is in her late 40s now, but had at one time thought of becoming a successful lawyer. She did well on her LSAT – being in the top 5%, but got married and the responsibilities of managing the house and teenage kids is taking a toll. Her relationship with her husband Mike has been good and her kids Winnie & Noah are doing ok as well. Jess does some volunteer work at the school which does not excite her, and feels something is missing in her life. She visits a therapist Dr Fern, who suggests it may be a long process to improvement and she feels disillusioned after her first visit. After many weeks, she decides to give it one more shot and books an appointment with Dr Harris. She enters an office located next to his by mistake and a hilarious conversation ensues where she is mistaken for a job applicant. She considers pursuing some of her earlier ambitions, however late it may seem to others. While a few friends support her, many including her entire family feel it is a foolish move, which will only strain their finances.
Till about 25% of the book, there was very little to look forward to and I found it very boring. After that, the tensions build up within the family and I liked the mix of humour, hope, despair and resolve in these mid sections. The aspect I liked here was that the scenario felt very real & likely. The story in the later sections tapers down the tension as expected, and while it can be regarded as an ending which addresses Jessica’s mental state, it is a low energy finish.
My rating: 3.5 / 5.
Thanks to Netgalley, Indigo Group and the author for a free electronic review copy.
November 2, 2023
I loved this so muuuuuuch!
Thanks to Netgalley for the audiobook arc. Rtc.
Thanks to Netgalley for the audiobook arc. Rtc.
March 28, 2023
"When I was growing up, I always wanted to be someone. Now I realize I should have been more specific."
~Lily Tomlin
Every chapter started with an amazing quote. As I've said before I'm a huge fan of chapter titles. But chapter quotes are even better.
Jessica is in her mid 40s, married with 2 teen kids. She's at the point in her life when she asks "is this it? What happened to my life?" I know so many women at this stage. I don't know why it happens, or how to prevent it, but many of us end up here. Even my friends without kids end up here.
When Jessica decides to make some changes, she is met with resistance, anger and incredulity every step of the way.
Melanie Summers takes this taboo topic and makes it completely hilarious and oh so relatable. Sometimes too relatable. It resonated with me so much.
There is a scene where Jessica goes to her first therapy appointment and it was like a scene out of Three's Company. Just hilarious.
I loved the blend of humor and seriousness. Melanie Summers does a great job at developing her characters, making them seem so real. So real I was often angry at so many people on Jessica's behalf. I felt like I was Jessica. That is a sign of a great writer.
Thank you to the author for my copy, all opinions are my own.
~Lily Tomlin
Every chapter started with an amazing quote. As I've said before I'm a huge fan of chapter titles. But chapter quotes are even better.
Jessica is in her mid 40s, married with 2 teen kids. She's at the point in her life when she asks "is this it? What happened to my life?" I know so many women at this stage. I don't know why it happens, or how to prevent it, but many of us end up here. Even my friends without kids end up here.
When Jessica decides to make some changes, she is met with resistance, anger and incredulity every step of the way.
Melanie Summers takes this taboo topic and makes it completely hilarious and oh so relatable. Sometimes too relatable. It resonated with me so much.
There is a scene where Jessica goes to her first therapy appointment and it was like a scene out of Three's Company. Just hilarious.
I loved the blend of humor and seriousness. Melanie Summers does a great job at developing her characters, making them seem so real. So real I was often angry at so many people on Jessica's behalf. I felt like I was Jessica. That is a sign of a great writer.
Thank you to the author for my copy, all opinions are my own.
March 18, 2023
DNF.
I tried. I really tried. I got 24% through the book and couldn’t stomach it anymore.
The premise of the book sounded great, funny even. But I could not get over the self-pity, loathing and disgust from the main character for this long. From the book outline, the character appears to make a break through to take back her
life, but 1/4 through and I have not experienced any improvement.
Perhaps at a different time in my life I would have enjoyed it. This book did really sound enjoyable and up my
alley, but we just didn't jive.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and authors for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I tried. I really tried. I got 24% through the book and couldn’t stomach it anymore.
The premise of the book sounded great, funny even. But I could not get over the self-pity, loathing and disgust from the main character for this long. From the book outline, the character appears to make a break through to take back her
life, but 1/4 through and I have not experienced any improvement.
Perhaps at a different time in my life I would have enjoyed it. This book did really sound enjoyable and up my
alley, but we just didn't jive.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and authors for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2023
Getting older is tough. I can relate. Working in an environment with much younger people really points out how out of touch you can be. Jess has the same problem but she’s figured out that she needs to do something for herself to be happy again. Through trial and error, many misunderstandings, feelings of inadequacy and being underappreciated, Jess finds herself again and it’s an incredibly satisfying (but very short in relation to the overall story) moment. Highly recommended for those who feel a little lost in the daily shuffle and need reassurance that what you’re doing, no matter what it is, is right.
July 12, 2024
I laughed out loud and related SO much to Jess and her desire for more out of life. I cheered her on while she stood up for her dreams and empathized with her when she was hurt by her family.
This was a lovely read and such a fun listen … the narrator did an amazing job; I highly recommend the audiobook!
This was a lovely read and such a fun listen … the narrator did an amazing job; I highly recommend the audiobook!
July 16, 2024
A story of Jessica Holloway dealing with two ungrateful, almost-grown children and wife to a needy husband. What happened to her life.
Laugh out loud funny at time , advents most women can relate to.
Pushed to her breaking point, Jessica decides what she wants is to go back to law school. But things are not so easy . Hello !! No means No everyone!!
Then time to reflect on life
Laugh out loud funny at time , advents most women can relate to.
Pushed to her breaking point, Jessica decides what she wants is to go back to law school. But things are not so easy . Hello !! No means No everyone!!
Then time to reflect on life
April 29, 2023
I feel like I read this book at the perfect time in my life. Jess has two teenagers and she put her own dreams on hold to stay home and raise her children and support her family. First and foremost, being a stay at home parent is the hardest job in the world. It’s 24/7, zero sick days, zero time off, zero raises, and most likely, zero thanks. As someone in corporate law, being a stay at home parent is far far harder than what I do so I commend everyone who has such a selfless career (and a career it is!).
Second, I connected with Jess in a lot of ways even though my motherhood journey is still in its early stages. It’s so easy to put myself last and feel like nothing can move forward without me. But it can. And I was grateful for that reminder in I Used to be Fun.
Jess made some poor decisions but after decades of putting herself last, feeling unfulfilled, and being unappreciated, it really wasn’t surprising that when she finally did something major for herself it was impulsive and seemingly out of the blue.
I struggled with Jess’s family. It was hard not to strongly dislike her selfish children and feel rage toward her husband. While they were entitled to be upset, I had hoped that after the initial shock they would be more supportive of encouraging Jess and her dreams.
I imagine that so much of this story is relatable to women across the country. Hopefully it’s a bit of guide on what NOT to do to follow your dreams but also a great mode of encouragement to remind you that you’re never “too old” and it’s never “too late”.
I really enjoyed this novel. The writing was great. There were several laugh out loud moments. Overall it was just really well done.
Thank you so much to Melanie Summers for the copy. My thoughts and review are all my own.
Second, I connected with Jess in a lot of ways even though my motherhood journey is still in its early stages. It’s so easy to put myself last and feel like nothing can move forward without me. But it can. And I was grateful for that reminder in I Used to be Fun.
Jess made some poor decisions but after decades of putting herself last, feeling unfulfilled, and being unappreciated, it really wasn’t surprising that when she finally did something major for herself it was impulsive and seemingly out of the blue.
I struggled with Jess’s family. It was hard not to strongly dislike her selfish children and feel rage toward her husband. While they were entitled to be upset, I had hoped that after the initial shock they would be more supportive of encouraging Jess and her dreams.
I imagine that so much of this story is relatable to women across the country. Hopefully it’s a bit of guide on what NOT to do to follow your dreams but also a great mode of encouragement to remind you that you’re never “too old” and it’s never “too late”.
I really enjoyed this novel. The writing was great. There were several laugh out loud moments. Overall it was just really well done.
Thank you so much to Melanie Summers for the copy. My thoughts and review are all my own.
July 26, 2024
Reflecting. I always get so angry and frustrated at people in my life who get themselves into messes or situations that I warn them about or can see it’s going to be a train wreck from a mile away. There’s a line in here from the main characters mother, “but I didn’t teach you how to be good to yourself. And if I had, you never would’ve gotten yourself into this mess.” Maybe these people I get so frustrated with haven’t learned to be good to their self. And probably why I got so frustrated with Jess while reading this book.
October 24, 2023
As many other reviewers have said, this story is relatable to a lot of women. Summers did a great job with the characters dialogue and made them seem real (especially the bratty teenagers...LOL). I loved the blended humor and seriousness in this book. I also loved watching Jess's journey to find herself. Great story to remind everyone that it's ok to prioritize yourself, and you're not too old, nor is it ever too late to go after what you want.
On a side note, every chapter starts with an amazing quote. Here are a few examples:
“Everyone wants to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.” - Oprah Winfrey
"You know you've reached middle age when you're cautioned to slow down by your doctor, instead of by the police." - Joan Rivers
One last thing, the audiobook is excellent! I highly recommend it.
I received an audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
On a side note, every chapter starts with an amazing quote. Here are a few examples:
“Everyone wants to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.” - Oprah Winfrey
"You know you've reached middle age when you're cautioned to slow down by your doctor, instead of by the police." - Joan Rivers
One last thing, the audiobook is excellent! I highly recommend it.
I received an audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2023
Jess (or Jessica) feels like she has given up her life to be a wife and a mom. While in her late 40s, she wants to make a change and make something more of her life. Will her family be supportive? Will she figure out who she really is?
This was a funny and serious adventure that she had taken me on. I fully enjoyed following along.
In some ways, I'm a lot like her. I'm in my 40s, a wife, and a mom and I feel like I should be doing more in my life. I sometimes feel like I want more out of life. I don't relate on how her family initially responds to her changes though, so I feel lucky in that regard.
One little thing that I found slightly annoying though is that the author kept switching between Jess and Jessica.
Thank you NetGalley for this opportunity!
This was a funny and serious adventure that she had taken me on. I fully enjoyed following along.
In some ways, I'm a lot like her. I'm in my 40s, a wife, and a mom and I feel like I should be doing more in my life. I sometimes feel like I want more out of life. I don't relate on how her family initially responds to her changes though, so I feel lucky in that regard.
One little thing that I found slightly annoying though is that the author kept switching between Jess and Jessica.
Thank you NetGalley for this opportunity!
April 13, 2023
3.5 stars
Jessica Holloway is 46 years old, married and has two teenage children. She is unhappy and needs more. She feels like she is living for everyone else except herself and something needs to change. But, she isn't sure what it is.
I enjoyed Jessica's journey to figuring herself out. There are funny moments and even sad times, too. Many moms, even myself, have felt like this at times.
Thank you to the author for the copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Jessica Holloway is 46 years old, married and has two teenage children. She is unhappy and needs more. She feels like she is living for everyone else except herself and something needs to change. But, she isn't sure what it is.
I enjoyed Jessica's journey to figuring herself out. There are funny moments and even sad times, too. Many moms, even myself, have felt like this at times.
Thank you to the author for the copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 24, 2024
3.5 stars. Relatable for me at this stage of life, the what ifs had I traversed other paths in life. Knocked down from 4 stars because the ending was just a bit too out there for me (too happy and a bit too unbelievable for me).
October 22, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to read this book early! The first part of this book was a little hard to get into but once I got attached to our main character I loved it! This is about a woman named Jessica and a midlife crisis of sorts. She has 2 teen kids and a husband who don't appreciate her, her career has turned into taking care of people and being a PTA mom and she's completely lost the fun side of herself she knew so long ago. RELATABLE. She hits a breaking point and decides she's going to do something for herself. She quits her job at a pottery studio (or something like that?) and decides to pursue her dream of law school. She gets a job at a law firm and her family REVOLTS because her husband finally has to step up and her kids have to be a little bit more independent. Gosh this part filled me with rage because it was like HOW DARE SHE do something for her. Yes, she could've communicated better, but whoa did it highlight how she was the only glue holding her family members together. I wish she would've gotten more appreciation in the end and she did to an extent, but as always it was her that bent and changed her goals to meet their needs. I felt myself laughing and raging on her behalf in this book and anything that can elicit such emotions in 3rd person is well done. I do think this could've hit 5 star territory if it was in 1st person from Jessicas POV but beggars can't be choosers.
November 9, 2023
Thank you to netgalley for an arc of this audiobook. I really enjoyed this book. It’s an honest take on being a mom. I thought it was really relatable. Jessica is a mom to 2 teenagers. She lives in an upper middle class neighborhood with her husband. She has good friends and family. Most would think she has it all. She mostly feels deflated. Like a doormat that is always trying to win mom of the year. It’s just not fulfilling to her and the kids are almost grown. She decides to go back to college, take the lsat and become a lawyer. To me this seems like an impossible situation with 2 teenagers and a husband that expects you to be a housewife. I thought this book was endearing. It’s about not giving up on yourself. Life is full of new chapters. I definitely recommend this book for any mom!
April 5, 2023
SYNOPSIS
Jessica Halloway isn't happy with her life as a mom of two ungrateful kids, an extremely busy husband and a job which is not true to her identity and calibre. She wants more from life and in her quest to find her identity she makes some life-changing discoveries that rock her marriage.
#bookhoarderreviews
Jessica Halloway represents every woman at some point in their lives - unsatisfied, clueless, searching for her true identity and vying to fulfill those dreams that were left half-way through while trying to make everyone around them happy.
Usually, women give up on their professional aspirations because they have to attune themselves to married life, kids and their never-ending requirements. In all of this she becomes the sacrificial lamb and by the time she realises, it is either too late or too difficult to move out of that comfort zone. Moreover, she is judged, has to justify and beg for support from everyone around, in case she decides to get back to her dreams.
The story is all about Jessica's journey from accidentally realising that she has some unfulfilled dreams to paving her own way through the ups and downs and finally finding her true self.
Through her story, the author has not just analysed the entire life of an aspirational yet ever-sacrificing wife and mother but has also touched upon the way relationships change when a woman gives preference to herself. The reactions of friends, children, all other family members and colleagues were so on point and realistic that I forgot I was reading fiction. Everything in the book was absolutely resonating.
Coming to the writing style, it was very witty and hilarious without a dull moment. I loved the little quotes mentioned at the beginning of every chapter. They were fun to read and matched the story very well.
I loved the fact that the author refrained from completely showing the family and friends in bad light or Jessica to be completely correct. I loved how they all came to the resolution at the end. It was practical, realistic and a win-win situation for everyone.
The author took up a serious issue to weave a story and I loved the treatment given to the entire situation. It was neither too solemn nor trivial. It was a perfect blend of sincerity towards the theme along with sprinkles of humour and wit to keep it entertaining.
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed reading the book.
Jessica Halloway isn't happy with her life as a mom of two ungrateful kids, an extremely busy husband and a job which is not true to her identity and calibre. She wants more from life and in her quest to find her identity she makes some life-changing discoveries that rock her marriage.
#bookhoarderreviews
Jessica Halloway represents every woman at some point in their lives - unsatisfied, clueless, searching for her true identity and vying to fulfill those dreams that were left half-way through while trying to make everyone around them happy.
Usually, women give up on their professional aspirations because they have to attune themselves to married life, kids and their never-ending requirements. In all of this she becomes the sacrificial lamb and by the time she realises, it is either too late or too difficult to move out of that comfort zone. Moreover, she is judged, has to justify and beg for support from everyone around, in case she decides to get back to her dreams.
The story is all about Jessica's journey from accidentally realising that she has some unfulfilled dreams to paving her own way through the ups and downs and finally finding her true self.
Through her story, the author has not just analysed the entire life of an aspirational yet ever-sacrificing wife and mother but has also touched upon the way relationships change when a woman gives preference to herself. The reactions of friends, children, all other family members and colleagues were so on point and realistic that I forgot I was reading fiction. Everything in the book was absolutely resonating.
Coming to the writing style, it was very witty and hilarious without a dull moment. I loved the little quotes mentioned at the beginning of every chapter. They were fun to read and matched the story very well.
I loved the fact that the author refrained from completely showing the family and friends in bad light or Jessica to be completely correct. I loved how they all came to the resolution at the end. It was practical, realistic and a win-win situation for everyone.
The author took up a serious issue to weave a story and I loved the treatment given to the entire situation. It was neither too solemn nor trivial. It was a perfect blend of sincerity towards the theme along with sprinkles of humour and wit to keep it entertaining.
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed reading the book.
April 26, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Author Melanie Summers for an advanced release copy for an exchange of my honest review/opinion of the book!
Jess is in her mid 40’s and is struggling in life with feelings of inadequacies, being under appreciated by her family, and felling unfulfilled. She has put her career and life on hold to raise her children and be a great wife. She has problems with saying no and always wants to help people. Enough is enough! Jess takes matters in her own hands and makes drastic changes to begin her journey of fulfillment and purpose.
**LIGHT SPOILERS AHEAD**
This was one of the most frustrating books to read. It had so much potential but didn’t deliver for me. I disliked the main character, Jess, immensely. She came off as a complaining privileged woman. The book is called I Used to be Fun but the reader doesn’t get a glimpse of what “fun Jess” was like.
Jess makes drastic changes within the family dynamics and causes all of this drama. She was an amazing mother and wife but then becomes completely missing in action with her family. The burden of being the foundation of your family is very real but I couldn’t get behind the way Jess decided to make changes. The ending caught me off guard and felt a little rushed.
I did enjoy the authors writing style and loved the use of the Secret Journal entries. Although I didn’t enjoy this book I would try another book by this author.
Jess is in her mid 40’s and is struggling in life with feelings of inadequacies, being under appreciated by her family, and felling unfulfilled. She has put her career and life on hold to raise her children and be a great wife. She has problems with saying no and always wants to help people. Enough is enough! Jess takes matters in her own hands and makes drastic changes to begin her journey of fulfillment and purpose.
**LIGHT SPOILERS AHEAD**
This was one of the most frustrating books to read. It had so much potential but didn’t deliver for me. I disliked the main character, Jess, immensely. She came off as a complaining privileged woman. The book is called I Used to be Fun but the reader doesn’t get a glimpse of what “fun Jess” was like.
Jess makes drastic changes within the family dynamics and causes all of this drama. She was an amazing mother and wife but then becomes completely missing in action with her family. The burden of being the foundation of your family is very real but I couldn’t get behind the way Jess decided to make changes. The ending caught me off guard and felt a little rushed.
I did enjoy the authors writing style and loved the use of the Secret Journal entries. Although I didn’t enjoy this book I would try another book by this author.
June 12, 2023
A beautiful, realistic fiction book about a forty six year old woman who feels miserable in her ordinary life as a wife and mother. She decides to take some big steps to finally make herself happy, at the expense of her family’s unity. I found myself loving the main character and rooting for her, even while she made some wrong decisions. It was an accurate portrayal of mundane life and a woman who was able to find herself and her confidence again after many years, while also helping to put her family back together.
August 28, 2023
Disappointing
This was a very disappointing read. I'm all for the pre-midlife/pre-empty-nest/reinvent-yourself crisis, but for Jess to make all of the changes that she did without even talking it over with her significant other, much less her family shows a level of selfishness beyond my understanding. Her single minded "it's all about me now" thoughts and actions lost all of my sympathy for finding herself on the back burner of her own life.
This was a very disappointing read. I'm all for the pre-midlife/pre-empty-nest/reinvent-yourself crisis, but for Jess to make all of the changes that she did without even talking it over with her significant other, much less her family shows a level of selfishness beyond my understanding. Her single minded "it's all about me now" thoughts and actions lost all of my sympathy for finding herself on the back burner of her own life.
May 5, 2023
This story is about Jessica who use to be fun adventurous is now having a midlife crisis with her husband and children. Jessica wants to free herself from the person she became to the person she used to be. This book is about midlife, family life with some drama comedy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 30, 2023
This book resonated with me in a 100 different ways. I love that I’m finding more books written with middle of life women as the heroines.
March 22, 2023
Jessica, or Jess to her friends and family, is desperately struggling with her painfully ordinary life. She sets out on a mission for self-discovery, but does so like a wrecking ball. Without any input, communication or much thought at all, Jess over commits herself to her plans, spreading herself even more thin than she was before. I was as frustrated with Jess as her children and Mike were initially, but not nearly as hateful or condescending as they were. Though her family was disapproving, I was taken back by some of Jess’ actions, such as intentionally not signing “love mom” and smiling to herself imagining their hurt reactions.
A few scenes and relationships were anticlimactic, including the Thanksgiving dinner scene and Winnie and her moms attempt at reconciling. Jess and Aaron’s relationship started off on such a high then was totally dismissed. There was no real closure on this relationship except that he eats messily.
I thought the analogy of the moldy cheese as it related to Jess’ marriage was fantastic and thought-provoking, “one tiny dot appeared and nothing else needed to be done to ruin it forever. Just add time. No effort required, and before you knew it, the entire thing would be covered in green and white spots”. A couple of scenes in particular made me chuckle aloud, including the lawyer jokes and when her “toes were being crammed in heels like passengers on a Tokyo subway train during rush hour”. I liked Jess’ moms final lecture about her people pleasing tendencies and trying to undo 46 years of parenting in one go, but it felt rushed and a bit out of character. Her mom seemed more old school and she was suddenly speaking to modern trends. This book is a good reminder that even as adults and busy parents, you should prioritize your own happiness and interests, stretch your limits, and find the beauty in your ordinary life.
Thank you NetGallery for providing me an advanced copy of this book to read. I enjoyed it in just a couple of days.
A few scenes and relationships were anticlimactic, including the Thanksgiving dinner scene and Winnie and her moms attempt at reconciling. Jess and Aaron’s relationship started off on such a high then was totally dismissed. There was no real closure on this relationship except that he eats messily.
I thought the analogy of the moldy cheese as it related to Jess’ marriage was fantastic and thought-provoking, “one tiny dot appeared and nothing else needed to be done to ruin it forever. Just add time. No effort required, and before you knew it, the entire thing would be covered in green and white spots”. A couple of scenes in particular made me chuckle aloud, including the lawyer jokes and when her “toes were being crammed in heels like passengers on a Tokyo subway train during rush hour”. I liked Jess’ moms final lecture about her people pleasing tendencies and trying to undo 46 years of parenting in one go, but it felt rushed and a bit out of character. Her mom seemed more old school and she was suddenly speaking to modern trends. This book is a good reminder that even as adults and busy parents, you should prioritize your own happiness and interests, stretch your limits, and find the beauty in your ordinary life.
Thank you NetGallery for providing me an advanced copy of this book to read. I enjoyed it in just a couple of days.
October 27, 2023
Wow, what a book! Lots to unpack here! It's a funny look at hitting that "age" where you are entering the edges of menopause and looking back at your life and thinking what the heck have I been doing for the last 20 years? The book will hit home and be much more humorous to those of us who are in the same spot or have passed it as we have lived through the condescending crap conversations with the doctors who just want to tell you that you are a woman and thus are just too emotional or dramatic, some even going so far as suggesting that you just need to exercise more or suck it up and live with your symptoms. Then of course there is the family dynamics of living with teens and a husband who is used to you just doing everything for them so how dare you suggest that they actually attempt to help out. I read this book with no expectations other than a good woman's fiction book and I quite enjoyed it. I found it humorous, albeit leaning a bit too realistic at times so also found myself tearing up in solidarity with the main character as well. There were times I found myself yelling at the husband or the kids to stop being such jerks, but I also wanted to tell the main character to toughen up and start telling people the truth as well as the word no. To me that is the test of a quality writer! They can bring a visceral reaction out of the reader whether it be laughter, tears or anger and I can say that this author definitely hits that nail well! The narration was wonderful as they brought real personality to the individual characters and helped bring the story more fully to life. I do think that this book will be better enjoyed as an audiobook due to the narrator's ability to breathe life into the characters. Overall, I enjoyed this book and will definitely be checking out more of this authors work!
November 15, 2023
I Used To Be Fun was a brave, heartbreaking, and empowering read from cover to cover. It took a realistic look into the life of a woman, Jess, who felt unseen and unappreciated. This story brought home the message that it’s never too late to chase your dreams and that it’s okay if your dreams are different now than they were before.
As I was listening/reading this story, I found I had so many similar feelings and thoughts as Jess. Jess represented many women in their forties and fifties whose kids were growing more independent. Melanie Summer included all the familial drama, painful truths, and funny scenes about life, marriage, and midlife crisis. I loved how Summers captured an inspiring source of strength and comfort during Jess’s emotional well-being challenges when she felt taken for granted and not appreciated. Furthermore, I savored how Summers brilliantly provided a storyline that provoked thoughts about women’s dreams, wants and needs, and had me thinking/questioning things of my own personal life.
Told from Jess’s perspective made for an equally entertaining and provocative listen. I vastly enjoyed how each chapter started with a quote and ended with a excerpt from Jess’s journal and how she ultimately found herself in the end.
All in all, Melanie Summers wrote a rich, satisfyingly refreshing novel. I recommend for all the 40 - 60 year old mamas. (Audio)
As I was listening/reading this story, I found I had so many similar feelings and thoughts as Jess. Jess represented many women in their forties and fifties whose kids were growing more independent. Melanie Summer included all the familial drama, painful truths, and funny scenes about life, marriage, and midlife crisis. I loved how Summers captured an inspiring source of strength and comfort during Jess’s emotional well-being challenges when she felt taken for granted and not appreciated. Furthermore, I savored how Summers brilliantly provided a storyline that provoked thoughts about women’s dreams, wants and needs, and had me thinking/questioning things of my own personal life.
Told from Jess’s perspective made for an equally entertaining and provocative listen. I vastly enjoyed how each chapter started with a quote and ended with a excerpt from Jess’s journal and how she ultimately found herself in the end.
All in all, Melanie Summers wrote a rich, satisfyingly refreshing novel. I recommend for all the 40 - 60 year old mamas. (Audio)
October 17, 2023
At fourty-six years old, Jessica realizes that she's feeling deeply unfulfilled. She has a husband, two teenage kids, a dog, a part-time job, a community ... But she lacks purpose. She needs to live for herself, to achieve her full potential, to leave a mark on this world as she always dreamed she would. Jessica knows that she can't keep on living this way : something has got to change.
Oh. Well. That was weirdly relatable ? I loved this book ! It was fun (not whiny at all, considering the topic) but also enlightening and a bit inspiring (not too much though, I still can't believe that I can do anything I want with my life). Jessica and her husband were both very well written characters and the family dynamics was interesting. I don’t know if this is a story for everyone, but if you're a 30+y.o. woman, chances are that you're gonna like ot as much as I did.
🎧 Audiobook narration : 3/5 nice but maybe a bit too young to play a 46 y.o. ?
Thank you NetGalley and RB Media for providing me this audiobook for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Oh. Well. That was weirdly relatable ? I loved this book ! It was fun (not whiny at all, considering the topic) but also enlightening and a bit inspiring (not too much though, I still can't believe that I can do anything I want with my life). Jessica and her husband were both very well written characters and the family dynamics was interesting. I don’t know if this is a story for everyone, but if you're a 30+y.o. woman, chances are that you're gonna like ot as much as I did.
🎧 Audiobook narration : 3/5 nice but maybe a bit too young to play a 46 y.o. ?
Thank you NetGalley and RB Media for providing me this audiobook for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
October 19, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. It was so relatable especially as a stay at home mom. It's hard to feel like your own person with goals and a life outside of raising children.
There was a part in the beginning of the book talking about fantasies: Having dreams about warm breadsticks and being a hobo and not having anyone to rely on you are so relatable 🙃 I loved watching the progress of Jess's journey to finding herself. It makes me realize that it's so important to do things for myself outside of my children. I loved the progression of their marriage. It felt so real. This is a book that I could definitely read again.
The narrator had a lovely voice, and I felt like it really fit with the character and the story.
There was a part in the beginning of the book talking about fantasies: Having dreams about warm breadsticks and being a hobo and not having anyone to rely on you are so relatable 🙃 I loved watching the progress of Jess's journey to finding herself. It makes me realize that it's so important to do things for myself outside of my children. I loved the progression of their marriage. It felt so real. This is a book that I could definitely read again.
The narrator had a lovely voice, and I felt like it really fit with the character and the story.
November 4, 2023
A story that many mothers can relate to, including me. I found myself going through a few different stages of liking and disliking characters, and the decisions they were making, throughout the book.
This may have been a possible 5 star read for me until I read the epilogue. That was disappointing because it became unbelievable. All the rest of the story was spot on but the final words were not something realistic for most of us.
This may have been a possible 5 star read for me until I read the epilogue. That was disappointing because it became unbelievable. All the rest of the story was spot on but the final words were not something realistic for most of us.
May 17, 2023
The first 50 pages or so were so funny and I loved Jessica’s character! As the story progressed, it moved a little slower. The initial humor from the main character was still there, but it was obscured by the conflict she was facing with her family. Jessica’s journey to find herself and the way she thinks through her journaling are relatable ideas. I love how she finds her voice and stands up for herself and her dreams, even if it means that her dreams may change.
October 12, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, RB Media and Melanie Summers for the early release copy of I Used to be Fun in exchange for my review.
Jess is a forty something mom who has become lost in the day-to-day rat race of life. She has become discouraged about what her life has become and what she had thought it would be. She once aspired to be a lawyer and realized she had spent her whole life making other people’s dreams happen. She decided to pursue the LSAT to enter law school and change jobs from the pottery shop to a law office as an assistant. Things didn’t go as planned and she saw that the grass isn’t always greener. I was unsure where this was headed, but it was a cute story and was a fun and fast read. Family really is the most important thing in our lives. Sometimes you just need to "get your sparkle back".
“Sometimes dreams are better in your head than in reality…”
"She had come to understand she was enough just as she was and she had been..."
Jess is a forty something mom who has become lost in the day-to-day rat race of life. She has become discouraged about what her life has become and what she had thought it would be. She once aspired to be a lawyer and realized she had spent her whole life making other people’s dreams happen. She decided to pursue the LSAT to enter law school and change jobs from the pottery shop to a law office as an assistant. Things didn’t go as planned and she saw that the grass isn’t always greener. I was unsure where this was headed, but it was a cute story and was a fun and fast read. Family really is the most important thing in our lives. Sometimes you just need to "get your sparkle back".
“Sometimes dreams are better in your head than in reality…”
"She had come to understand she was enough just as she was and she had been..."
August 29, 2024
Parts of this hit a little too close for comfort! Jessica Holloway seems to have everything - marriage, children, nice home, friends and a semi-satisfying part time job. The only problem is that Jessica is not having any fun. Her life is in the hands of everyone, but her. When she finally reaches her breaking point, she sets out to reclaim her fun self.
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